Published on: 2026-07-14
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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July 14, 2026 Peace and Security
Terrorist groups continue to pose a serious threat in the countries of West Africa and the Sahel. This was stated at the UN Security Council meeting by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General in the region, Leonardo Santos Simão.
Among the positive news, he reported that signs of recovery in political dialogue and regional cooperation have appeared in several countries.
Terrorist groups are changing tactics
According to the head of the UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), armed extremist groups continue to pose a threat to the population, especially in the central Sahel and northern Nigeria, while simultaneously increasing their activities in the coastal countries of the Gulf of Guinea.
“These groups are adapting their tactics, increasingly using modern technologies, including drones, new communication means, and cryptocurrencies,” Simau said. He noted that attacks are more and more often coordinated across several fronts simultaneously and have a cross-border nature.
The head of UNOVAS also warned about the rapid spread of illegal drug trafficking and consumption, especially in coastal states. According to him, young people are primarily the victims of this trend, and there are reports that drugs are also used by members of terrorist groups.
At the same time, humanitarian organizations face serious restrictions on access to those in need, and a lack of funding reduces the scale of vital aid. The most severe consequences of the crisis are experienced by women, children, and youth.
The region is returning to dialogue
Despite ongoing threats, Simau noted that diplomatic contacts in the region are increasing and steps are being taken to restore cooperation.
According to him, concrete results have appeared in recent months. In February, the Kamba border crossing between Niger and Nigeria reopened, restoring an important trade route. Contacts between Benin and the Sahel States Alliance countries are being resumed, and negotiations are ongoing on opening the border between Niger and Benin.
Simau noted the efforts of the Mano River Union, as well as the decision of Mali and Algeria to normalize bilateral relations by reopening air links and restoring diplomatic representation.
“These are examples of regional efforts aimed at establishing dialogue and leading to cooperation among the countries of the region,” he emphasized.
Democratic processes continue
The Secretary-General’s Special Representative noted that despite numerous challenges, democratic processes in the region continue to develop.
During the reporting period, peaceful elections were held in Benin, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, and Guinea. In several countries, reforms aimed at strengthening the accountability of state institutions and the rule of law are ongoing.
At the same time, in some countries, especially in the central part of the Sahel, new restrictions are being introduced concerning political activities and the work of civil society organizations. According to Simau, the authorities justify these measures as necessary to strengthen the state during the transitional period and the complex security situation. However, political parties and civil society organizations are expressing growing concern.
Simau emphasized that the timelines for returning to constitutional rule in the three countries of the central Sahel remain uncertain.
Military measures alone are not enough
According to the head of UNOVAS, the fight against terrorism cannot be limited exclusively to forceful methods.
“To eliminate the root causes of instability, investments in the social, economic, and environmental foundations of peace are necessary,” he stated.
Simau spoke about the work of the UN Department for Development Cooperation in the field of water resource management, as well as in strengthening maritime security and combating illegal drug trafficking. He cited northern Togo as an example, where the combination of security measures with development programs and humanitarian support is already helping to improve the situation.
Despite ongoing economic challenges, including inflation, rising public debt, and high security expenditures, the region’s economy is forecast to grow by an average of about five percent in 2026.
Simau also reminded that, under the instruction of the Secretary-General, an independent strategic review of UNOWAS’s mandate has begun, led by former Ethiopian President Sahle-Work Zewde. The review results will help adapt the office’s activities to changing realities and strengthen the UN’s role in West Africa and the Sahel.
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